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Outemu Dustproof Brown vs. Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp)

An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Brown and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches—which one is the best fit for you?

Overview

When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the Outemu Dustproof Brown and the Durock Silent T1 (shrimp) can be based on specific preferences and needs. The dustproof brown switch is known for its durability and falls into the category of linear switches. On the other hand, the silent T1 (shrimp) is perfect for those seeking a tactile and silenced typing experience, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments. This switch offers a medium bump, padded bottom-out feel, and subdued audio feedback, and is categorized as stepped, accented, muted, and polished. While these general descriptions can help guide your decision, delving deeper into the specific features of each switch will ultimately allow you to make an informed choice that best suits your typing style and preferences.

By the numbers

Technical specifications

Actuation force

45g

Actuation force

N/A

Bottom-out force

65g

Bottom-out force

67g

Pre-travel

2.00 mm

Pre-travel

2.00 mm

Total travel

4.00 mm

Total travel

4.00 mm

Factory lubed

Yes

Factory lubed

Yes

Stem construction

Partial box

Stem construction

Standard

Stem material

pom

Stem material

POM

Top housing material

Polycarbonate

Top housing material

Polycarbonate

Bottom housing material

Nylon

Bottom housing material

Nylon

Mount type

PCB (5-pin)

Mount type

PCB (5-pin)

Spring

Stainless steel

Spring

Gold-plated

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Dustproof Brown and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp), both switches feature polycarbonate top housings. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, resulting in a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for switches that utilize RGB lighting, providing an aesthetically pleasing look. With both switches sharing this housing material, users can expect similar sound profiles and visual appeal when using them.

In terms of the bottom housing material, the Outemu Dustproof Brown utilizes a nylon housing which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) also features a nylon bottom housing, offering a similar typing experience with a focus on creating a rich and resonant sound profile. Despite the slight differences between the switches' top and bottom housing materials, both nylon housings contribute to an overall enhanced typing experience.

Overall, while the Outemu Dustproof Brown and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) may have slight variations in their housing materials, both switches offer a premium typing experience with unique sound profiles. The combination of polycarbonate and nylon in each switch creates a harmonious balance between sharp, crisp sound and deeper, fuller tones. Whether a user prefers a more resonant or a clearer sound, both switches deliver exceptional performance with their carefully selected housing materials. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing feel.

Weight

Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch reveals some interesting differences. The Dustproof Brown has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Silent T1's unknown actuation force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Silent T1 requires a slightly heavier 67 grams compared to the Dustproof Brown's 65 grams. Both switches fall into the medium-heavy category, providing a satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a bit of resistance. While the actuation force and bottom out force may vary slightly between the two switches, users can expect similar results in terms of typing feel and overall performance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for a lighter or heavier typing experience.

Travel distance

Both the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, you will experience the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. This similarity in travel distance ensures that users will get consistent results in terms of key press feel and feedback when using either switch. It is worth noting that having the same travel distance can also contribute to a consistent typing experience across different keyboards using these switches.

Price comparison

Which switch is more bang for your buck?

The Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent T1 (Shrimp) for $5.57.

The Outemu Dustproof Brown comes in at $3.10 per 10 switches.

Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.

That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Outemu Dustproof Brown switch does not have a specific reputation for any particular sound profile. On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch is known for its muted sound, which is ideal for those seeking a quieter typing experience in noise-sensitive environments. The muted sound of the Silent T1 is achieved through thoughtful design and materials, providing a softer and less disruptive auditory feedback compared to standard mechanical switches. It's important to note that the overall sound of a switch can be influenced by various factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycap materials used.

Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Outemu Dustproof Brown switch does not have any specific descriptions regarding its tactile feel. In contrast, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch is known for its stepped, accented, and polished tactile feel. This means that users can expect a more nuanced tactile experience with the Silent T1, feeling distinct stages in the keystroke with a medium level of tactility that strikes a balance between being noticeable yet not overwhelming. Additionally, the polished finish of the switch contributes to a smoother key travel experience, reducing friction and providing a sleek typing sensation.

In conclusion, while the Outemu Dustproof Brown switch remains a bit of a mystery in terms of sound and feel qualities, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch stands out for its muted sound profile and stepped, accented, and polished tactile feel. If you are looking for a tactile switch that offers a quieter typing experience with a refined tactile sensation, the Silent T1 may be the ideal choice for you. Remember to consider all aspects of your keyboard setup when exploring different switch options to achieve the desired typing experience.

Conclusion

In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Dustproof Brown and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switches, consider your priorities for your typing experience. If you value a smooth bottom-out feel and a switch with a reputation for durability, the Dustproof Brown may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch that combines tactile feedback with a quiet typing experience, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) is the way to go. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize quietness or durability in your mechanical keyboard switches.

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